Following attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States, the specter of war looms over the Middle East. Iran's significant missile strike on American military bases located in its neighboring regions, including Israel, has led to reactions that could ignite conflict across the entire Middle East.
Before the U.S. attacks on Iran, Gulf countries like Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia tried to position themselves as neutral, stating they wouldn't partake nor offer their lands for the conflict. Nonetheless, Iran made it clear that all American bases in the area were legitimate targets. Following its swift attacks on neighboring regions, these countries have responded within hours.
Saudi Arabia fiercely condemned Iran's attack, branding it a treacherous assault that jeopardizes regional security.
UAE classified the attack as a direct violation of national sovereignty and international law, asserting its right to respond to such provocations.
Qatar successfully intercepted Iranian missiles heading towards its border, calling for peace in the region.
Kuwait's Ministry of Defense announced their air defense system intercepted missiles en route, with multiple explosions reported.
Bahrain revealed an attack targeting the American '5th Fleet' headquarters in Manama, labeling it as a threat to regional stability.
Oman, earlier mediating peace talks between Iran and the U.S., offered a slightly different take. While they regretted the attacks on Iran by Israel and the U.S., calling it against international law and urging the UN Security Council for a ceasefire due to potential catastrophic consequences in the Middle East, they also recognized the self-defense rights of the attacked nations.
Is the Entire Middle East Destined for War?
The current circumstances suggest so. Following the attacks initiated by Israel and the United States, Iran's substantial retaliatory response has encompassed Gulf nations, with missiles flying overhead and explosions heard. Should these countries retaliate, it could escalate into a full-blown regional conflict.
Iran's Foreign Minister Clarified Intentions in 'India Today' Interview
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, conveyed a stern warning in an exclusive interview with India Today's Geeta Mohan. He stated that any U.S. attack on Iran would classify all American bases in the Middle East as 'legitimate targets', viewing them as U.S. territories rather than belonging to host countries. Araghchi emphasized Iran's missiles are solely defensive, strategically limited to a range of 2,000 km, sufficient to cover the entire Middle East.
Where Did Iran Launch Missiles?
Israel:
Iran launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones towards Israel.
Riyadh (Saudi Arabia):
Targeting Riyadh's Prince Sultan Airbase, Iran launched missiles, causing significant explosions.
UAE:
Explosions near Abu Dhabi and Dubai occurred as missiles were intercepted, with Abu Dhabi reporting a death caused by debris.
Bahrain:
A video of a drone attack on a U.S. naval base in Bahrain went viral.
Qatar and Kuwait:
Missiles launched towards U.S. bases like Al Udeid were intercepted by air defense systems.
What Missiles and Drones Were Used?
During this operation, Iran employed its most lethal missile and drone technology. Medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) like Shahab-3 (1,300 km range) and Emad (1,800 km range) were prominently used, along with short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) targeting nearby bases. Additionally, a significant number of 'suicide drones' (kamikaze drones) were deployed, renowned for their group strike capabilities.
In conclusion, the Middle East is on the brink of a war that could evolve into a significant global crisis. The coming hours will determine whether this conflict remains isolated or erupts, engulfing the entire Middle East and potentially the world.
